Key facts
- All NHS dental treatment is FREE during pregnancy and for 12 months after your baby's birth if you have a valid Maternity Exemption Certificate (MatEx)
- You can claim free dental care from the moment you confirm your pregnancy with a healthcare professional
- Free treatment covers check-ups, fillings, extractions, crowns, root canal treatment, and dentures
- Your MatEx certificate remains valid until your baby's first birthday, giving you a full year of free dental care after birth
- You still need to search for an NHS dentist near you who is accepting new patients — free treatment doesn't guarantee availability
Why dental care matters during pregnancy
Pregnancy causes significant hormonal changes that can affect your oral health. Many women experience pregnancy gingivitis — swollen, bleeding gums caused by increased progesterone levels. Without proper dental care, this can develop into more serious gum disease, which some research has linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
Morning sickness can also damage tooth enamel. Stomach acid from vomiting erodes the protective outer layer of your teeth, increasing your risk of cavities. This is why the NHS provides free dental treatment throughout pregnancy and for a year afterwards — it's not just about your comfort, but about protecting both you and your baby's health.
Regular dental check-ups during pregnancy allow your dentist to spot problems early, provide advice on managing morning sickness effects, and ensure any necessary treatment happens safely during your pregnancy.
How to get your Maternity Exemption Certificate (MatEx)
Your Maternity Exemption Certificate is your ticket to free NHS dental treatment. Here's how to get one:
Through your midwife or GP: When you confirm your pregnancy with a healthcare professional, they'll give you form FW8. Complete this form and send it to your local NHS Business Services Authority office. You'll receive your MatEx certificate by post within a few days.
The certificate details: Your MatEx shows your name, NHS number, and an expiry date — your baby's first birthday. Keep this certificate safe and show it to your dentist before any treatment. They'll record the certificate number on your treatment form.
Apply early: Don't wait. You can apply for your MatEx as soon as your pregnancy is confirmed. This means you can start accessing free dental care immediately, which is especially important if you're experiencing pregnancy gingivitis or morning sickness damage.
Lost your certificate?: Contact your local NHS Business Services Authority office. They can issue a replacement or confirm your entitlement over the phone to your dental practice.
What NHS dental treatments are free during pregnancy
With a valid MatEx certificate, ALL NHS dental treatment is completely free. This includes:
Preventive care: Routine check-ups, scale and polish, fluoride applications, and oral hygiene advice. Your dentist can see you as often as necessary during pregnancy.
Restorative treatments: White or silver fillings, crowns, bridges, and inlays. If you need a crown, you won't pay anything — normally this would cost £319.10 under Band 3 treatment.
Emergency treatments: Extractions, root canal treatment, abscess drainage, and pain relief. Dental emergencies don't wait for convenient times, and pregnancy doesn't make you exempt from toothache.
Dentures and repairs: If you need dentures fitted, repaired, or replaced, this is covered. Adjustments to existing dentures are also free.
X-rays: Dentists are cautious about X-rays during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, but if absolutely necessary for diagnosis or treatment, these are included at no cost.
Without your MatEx, you'd normally pay the standard NHS charges: Band 1 £26.80 for check-ups, Band 2 £73.50 for fillings, or Band 3 £319.10 for crowns or dentures. Your certificate saves you money on every single appointment.
When to see the dentist during pregnancy
Early pregnancy: Book a dental check-up as soon as you know you're pregnant. Your dentist can assess your oral health, provide advice specific to pregnancy, and treat any existing problems before they worsen.
Each trimester: The second trimester (weeks 14-27) is generally considered the safest time for dental treatment. However, routine care and emergencies can be handled at any stage. Your dentist will work with you to time treatments appropriately.
Managing morning sickness: If you're experiencing regular vomiting, see your dentist. They can recommend special toothpaste, show you how to protect your teeth after being sick (rinse with water or fluoride mouthwash rather than brushing immediately), and monitor for enamel erosion.
Bleeding gums: Don't ignore bleeding when you brush. This is pregnancy gingivitis, and while common, it needs professional attention. Your dentist can perform a thorough clean and advise on home care techniques.
Dental pain: Never ignore toothache during pregnancy. Untreated infections can spread and potentially affect your overall health. NHS dentists can safely treat dental infections during pregnancy — contact your dentist or use our emergency dentist guide if you need urgent help.
Safety of dental treatment during pregnancy
Many pregnant women worry about dental treatment safety. Here's what you need to know:
Local anaesthetics are safe: The anaesthetics used in dentistry are considered safe throughout pregnancy. Your dentist will use the minimum effective dose, and modern anaesthetics don't cross the placenta in significant amounts.
Most treatments can proceed: Fillings, extractions, root canals, and gum treatments can all be performed safely during pregnancy. Your dentist will always weigh the risks of treating versus not treating.
X-rays are minimised: Dentists avoid X-rays during pregnancy when possible. However, if essential for diagnosing a serious problem, modern dental X-rays use extremely low radiation doses and focus on your mouth, not your abdomen. A lead apron provides additional protection.
Timing matters: Elective procedures might be postponed until after birth, but necessary treatment won't be delayed. Leaving infections or serious decay untreated poses greater risks than proceeding with appropriate dental care.
Always inform your dentist: Tell your dentist you're pregnant and how far along you are. Mention any complications, medications you're taking, or advice from your midwife or GP. This helps them provide the safest, most appropriate care.
Finding an NHS dentist when you're pregnant
Having free dental care doesn't help if you can't find an NHS dentist. Many practices have waiting lists for new NHS patients, so start looking early.
You can search for an NHS dentist near you through DentistSearch, which shows which practices are currently accepting new NHS patients. This saves you calling around multiple surgeries.
If you're not already registered with an NHS dentist, explain that you're pregnant when you call. Some practices prioritise pregnant women and new mothers because of the importance of dental care during this period.
If you can't find an NHS dentist accepting new patients, contact NHS England's customer contact centre on 0300 311 2233. They can help you find available NHS dental care in your area.
For emergency dental treatment, call NHS 111 if you can't reach your regular dentist. They'll arrange urgent care, which is also covered by your MatEx certificate.
After your baby arrives
Your MatEx certificate remains valid for 12 months after your baby's birth. This extended period recognises that new mothers often neglect their own health while caring for a newborn.
Use this year wisely. Book a check-up once you've settled into a routine with your baby. Any treatment needed can be completed free of charge before your certificate expires.
Set a reminder for a month before your certificate expires. If you need ongoing treatment, starting it before your free care ends means you'll only pay for subsequent appointments, not the entire course of treatment.
Make the most of your free dental care
Pregnancy is a crucial time for dental health, and the NHS recognises this by providing comprehensive free dental care. Don't let this opportunity pass unused.
Whether you need a routine check-up, have pregnancy gingivitis, or are dealing with tooth damage from morning sickness, NHS dental care is available to you at no cost throughout your pregnancy and for a full year after birth.
Ready to find an NHS dentist? Search for NHS dentists accepting new patients in your area today. Getting registered now means you're covered for any dental needs throughout your pregnancy journey and beyond.